Personal Story
My Journey Into Photography

Lumen Catler
Sep 29, 2025
5 min read
Every photographer has a story of how they picked up a camera for the first time — mine started with curiosity, light, and a desire to freeze moments before they disappeared. This is my journey into photography, and why it continues to inspire me every day.
Step 1: The First Camera
It all began with a hand-me-down film camera from my grandfather. I didn’t know the technical details, but I knew how it felt to capture a moment and see it come alive in print. That spark never left me.
Step 2: Discovering the Power of Light
In high school, I realized how light transforms a photo. Sunsets, shadows, reflections — I started chasing light, experimenting endlessly, and learning how it tells stories as much as people do.
Step 3: Turning Passion Into Purpose
At first, photography was a hobby. Then friends asked me to shoot their events, portraits, and eventually weddings. I discovered that people trusted me with their most important memories — and that responsibility turned my passion into a profession.
Step 4: Building My Style
Over the years, I found my voice behind the lens: candid, authentic, and focused on emotion. I learned to value imperfect moments just as much as perfect ones, because they tell the truest stories.
Step 5: Why I Still Love It
Today, photography is not just a job — it’s my way of seeing the world. Every shoot is different, every client unique. That constant challenge and joy keep me inspired to create timeless images.
Bonus Tip
Don’t wait for the “perfect gear” or “perfect moment.” Start with what you have, follow your curiosity, and let your story evolve naturally.
Closing
My journey into photography has been full of trial, discovery, and growth. Most of all, it’s been about connection — with light, with stories, and with people. And that’s what I hope shines through in every image I create.






